Call Us: 423.602.2750
PAY ONLINE
423.602.2750

Carotid Artery Stenosis (CAS) Overview

Carotid Artery Stenosis (CAS) Overview

Carotid Artery Stenosis (CAS) is a build-up of plaque made mostly of fat and cholesterol. The plaque causes the arteries to become stiff; this is commonly referred to as hardening of the arteries. When the arteries become obstructed, the blood is not able to flow freely to the brain, and the brain is deprived of oxygen, glucose, and other nutrients that are needed.
SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

Carotid Artery Stenosis Causes

The function of the carotid arteries is to bring blood to your brain and a build-up of plaque, made up mostly of fat and cholesterol, can occur inside these arteries. The plaque causes the arteries to become stiff; this is commonly referred to as “hardening of the arteries.” When the arteries become obstructed, the blood is not able to flow freely to the brain, and the brain is deprived of oxygen, glucose, and other nutrients that are needed. Strokes can occur when the plaque ruptures and sends debris to the brain blocking the cerebral arteries, damaging the brain.

Carotid Artery Stenosis Risk Factors & Symptoms

Early carotid artery disease is usually asymptomatic.  However higher degrees of stenosis can present as full stroke or TIA “mini-stroke.”  Remember FAST.
  • Facial movement, one side
  • Arm or leg sudden paralysis, or numbness
  • Speech absence, slurred or garbled
  • Time critical, call 911
doctor taking woman's blood pressure to see if she's at risk for carotid artery stenosis

Risk Factors

There are many risk factors for CAS; however, with three or more present, your risk is multiplied significantly.
  • Age – over age of 65
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Smoking
  • High cholesterol
  • Obesity
  • Lack of Exercise
  • Family history of hardening of the arteries and/or stroke
  • Poor diet
  • Consuming more than 2 alcoholic drinks per day
woman with diabetes testing her blood sugar

You Have a Choice When It Comes to Vascular Care.
Get an Appointment at VIC In 1 to 3 days – Without a Referral!

CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT: 423.602.2750

You Have a Choice When It Comes to Vascular Care.
Get an Appointment at VIC In 1 to 3 days – Without a Referral!

423.602.2750

Carotid Artery Stenosis Diagnosis

Diagnosing CAS can be done with a non-invasive duplex ultrasound examination, which is the best and most effective test to determine your risk and the severity of the disease.  If you experience symptoms of stroke, contact your primary care doctor right away and be evaluated.

Carotid Artery Stenosis Treatment

Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the disease found within the patient. Lifestyle changes are the easiest, least invasive, and can be an effective means of managing the disease. With appropriate medications, lifestyle changes, and yearly ultrasound monitoring, one may avoid a surgical intervention in mild to moderate disease. If the carotid disease is severe, surgical or “stent” therapy would be considered to reduce the chance of stroke. If a stroke or TIA – mini-stroke has occurred, interventional or surgical therapy will often be required.
  • Carotid Endarterectomy is performed to open and clean out the carotid artery to prevent stroke.
  • Carotid Stenting is a procedure in which a vascular surgeon inserts a slim mesh tube called a stent into the artery to expand the artery walls and increase the blood flow in the blocked artery.
  • TCAR – Transcarotid Artery Revascularization begins with a small incision made just above the collarbone to allow access to the carotid artery. A sheath is then placed in the carotid artery to protect the brain from debris during the procedure.  The circuit directs blood flow and debris away from the brain while a stent is placed to exclude the blockage.
OUR LOCATIONS

Carotid Artery Stenosis Prevention

Preventative measures can be taken to prevent or slow the disease progression. With additional lifestyle adjustments one can also decrease progression:

  • Stop smoking
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Limit the amount of fat and cholesterol in your diet
  • Eat more fruits and vegetables
  • Limit your intake of salt
  • Exercise regularly
  • Limit alcohol intake
  • Manage chronic conditions such as diabetes & high blood pressure
healthy salad to prevent carotid artery stenosis
As always, if you are experiencing any of the warning signs for CAS, seek medical help immediately.
CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT

Carotid Artery Stenosis Progression

Early carotid artery disease is usually asymptomatic.  Higher degrees of stenosis can present as a stroke or a mini-stroke. This includes transient blindness in one eye, weakness or numbness of an arm or leg, paralysis of the face, or speech problems.

FAQs

A non-invasive Duplex Ultrasound examination is typically the most effective test to determine your risk and the severity of carotid artery disease. If you experience carotid artery symptoms suggestive of a stroke, it’s crucial to contact your primary care doctor for an evaluation.

Carotid artery stenosis treatment options include:

  • Carotid endarterectomy – a surgical procedure to open and clean out the carotid artery to prevent stroke. 
  • Carotid stenting – a procedure where a vascular surgeon inserts a stent into the artery to widen it and improve blood flow in the blocked area, which can be relevant in cases of internal carotid artery stenosis or even bilateral carotid artery stenosis.
  • TCAR – Transcarotid Artery Revascularization (TCAR) involves a small incision above the collarbone for carotid artery access. A sheath protects the brain from debris while blood flow is temporarily redirected during stent placement to bypass the blockage. 



Learn More About Carotid Artery Stenosis Treatment Options

Common carotid artery symptoms can sometimes include transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or even stroke. There are different ways to describe the condition based on the location and extent of the narrowing, such as internal carotid artery stenosis, which specifically affects the internal carotid artery, or bilateral carotid artery stenosis, where both carotid arteries are narrowed. Recognizing these potential symptoms are important for seeking timely diagnosis and treatment.

Complimentary Vein Screenings Available

The Vascular Institute of Chattanooga is joining the first annual Women’s Wellness + Self-Care Social on April 30th from 4PM to 7PM at Alchemy MedSpa + Wellness Center, 200 Manufacturers Road, Suite 105.

Wondering if leg pain, swelling, or visible veins could be a sign of venous disease? Our vascular specialists will be onsite offering complimentary, quick, non-invasive varicose vein screenings to help you better understand your vein health.

Grab your girlfriends and enjoy a night of wellness, beauty, and self-care with mini experiences, expert guidance, and exclusive event-only specials. RSVP by April 23rd to reserve your goody bag.

RSVP NOW
New Hixson Location
NOW OPEN!

Call now to book an appointment.

Conveniently located near Northgate Mall.

CALL NOW

November

November is Diabetes Awareness Month!

11/15 World Diabetes Awareness Day
Check out our page to learn more and stay informed!
LEARN MORE